When does it count as animal cruelty?

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Puck28 Icon representing the flag French
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Hi everyone,

I’ve noticed that my neighbours’ dog (a Labrador type) is being left outside all day long. It’s starting to get really cold now and he only has the porch to try and find some shelter from the wind and rain.

The dog seems well-fed and looks like he's brought in at night (though it’s harder to see into their garden in the evenings...).

At what point does this officially become animal cruelty? In our eyes, it already is, but what is the legal position on this?

And what can be done if the situation doesn't change? Do the RSPCA step in for this kind of thing (what are their criteria for taking action), or are there other animal charities I should contact?

Thanks for any advice you can give.

Translated from French
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    Anonymous user Icon representing the flag French
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    I also think there’s probably no legal recourse in this case... Poor thing... I mean, obviously some dogs are perfectly happy living outdoors, especially if they’re working dogs... But a Labrador left all alone in a garden, whether it’s freezing or not... Poor soul! Unfortunately, it’s quite common too—people get a dog just because they have a garden... But apart from the garden, there’s not much else for the dog: no time spent with them, no walks out and about, no company... As for the law, I’m not sure, but to me, it’s a form of neglect (I’m talking about this specific case where the dog is mostly on its own and never taken for a walk).
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    Anonymous user Icon representing the flag French
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    But the thing is, sheepdogs... they have a flock. It’s not really comparable to a Labrador wandering alone in a garden all day long without any proper shelter. This dog should, at the very least, have an insulated kennel to shelter from the elements. The cold is one thing (which some dogs can handle well), but a dog isn't only sensitive to the temperature. Dogs have the same instincts as any other mammal; they will try to find somewhere safe during a storm, and not being able to do so causes a lot of stress. As for your question, it really is a case-by-case thing. You can always explain the situation to the management of a local RSPCA rescue centre. Some of them are quite willing to come out and visit; the lack of shelter at this time of year might be enough for them to act. Generally, they just try to start a dialogue to encourage people to give the animal a basic level of comfort and security.
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    Anonymous user Icon representing the flag French
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    I reckon a dog needs to be able to shelter from the wind and rain, but other than that, letting them sleep outside isn't considered animal cruelty.

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    Anonymous user Icon representing the flag French
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    I don't think so in this case... maybe if the dog was kept in a kennel all the time or tied up, but with him just being in the garden, the RSPCA won't bother coming out, especially if he's well-fed.

    Translated from French

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